EEAST antibody testing programme – how to book a blood test

Testing sites are currently located at venues in Luton, Kempston, King’s Lynn, Bedford, Peterborough, Watford, Ipswich, Stevenage, Southend, Chelmsford, Great Notley, Harlow, Wyboston, Welwyn, Norwich and Newmarket. 

Please note that our antibody testing programme is now available to all staff, volunteers, PAS staff and any staff affiliated to EEAST. 

Further details of test locations will be released on Need To Know.

Please complete the online form to book your appointment for antibody testing and the EEAST Coordination Centre (staffed 24/7) will be in touch to book your appointment and provide your reference number.

The following information is required when submitting the online form.

• Name
• Date of birth
• Telephone number
• Address
• NHS number
• GP Surgery
• Operational area/department
• Base location/station
• Line manager
• Payroll (ESR) number

It is important that you have your NHS number for booking your antibody blood test. If you don’t know your NHS number details on how you can find it easily can be found on the NHS website. 

NHS Numbers can be found:

• Via the NHS App
• On a repeat prescription
• A hospital appointment letter
• Via your GP practice

When the team contact you, please tell us your desired testing site, and you will be given a date and time slot to book in to be tested.  You will be required to complete a consent form on arrival at the test venue.

You may be able to just turn up on the day or have a test during your working hours/shift.  If there is capacity for you to be tested then you will be able to have your test there and then.  However, you must still contact the Coordination Centre first, to book in. You will be given a reference number, which you will need to give to the individual performing the tests.

Important note: Please remember that it is very important that you are well hydrated before you have your blood test taken, especially in this warm weather.  Being well-hydrated will make it far easier for the person who is taking your blood to find a vein that can easily be punctured, and far easier for you because your veins will be much easier to find and access.  Ideally, start drinking more fluids a day or two before your blood is drawn and continue drinking water up until your blood is drawn. Limit caffeine, which acts as a mild diuretic increasing the amount of urine you produce.

A question and answer section will be added to Need To Know shortly.

Published 28th May 2020
Updated 29th May 2020